Writing scripts for animated series is both an art and a craft, blending creative storytelling with the technical needs of animation. Animation opens a world of possibilities for storytelling, from whimsical fantasy realms to realistic settings, but writing for animation has its own unique challenges and rules. This guide will cover the basics of writing animated series scripts, from understanding the medium to structuring your episodes and creating compelling characters.
1. Understanding Animation as a Medium
Before diving into writing, it’s essential to understand animation as a medium. Unlike live-action, animated shows allow for much more flexibility with what can be depicted on screen. This means that the script should leave room for visual creativity and movement. The world of animation is limitless, and often, the script will serve as a foundation for the animators, voice actors, and directors to bring to life a story that could never be achieved in live-action.
There are different styles of animation (2D, 3D, stop-motion, etc.), and the approach to writing can vary depending on the type. However, the general principles of writing animated series scripts remain the same.
2. Script Format for Animated Series
The format of a script for an animated series is very similar to that of live-action, with some key differences. Here’s a breakdown of how an animated series script is typically formatted:
- Scene Heading: This indicates the location and time of day. In animation, you may also note whether the scene requires special effects or animated elements.
- Action Descriptions: These are written in present tense, explaining the visual details of the scene and what the characters are doing. Because animation is a highly visual medium, these descriptions need to be clear and provide insight into the characters’ movements, expressions, and the overall setting.
- Character Name: Like in any script, the character’s name appears before their dialogue. In an animated script, you might also add specific notes about how the voice actor should deliver their lines, especially if it’s an animated show for children where exaggerated delivery is common.
- Dialogue: The dialogue section is the same as a live-action script, though it’s important to remember that animation often relies heavily on humor, wit, and timing. Dialogue in animated series can be more stylized or playful than in a live-action script, depending on the tone of the show.
- Time and Space: Animated shows often require more precise timing, so you may want to make sure that the timing of each line, action, and animation is considered. In an animated script, these aspects may be even more important, as the timing will directly influence the pacing of the animation.
Here’s a sample layout for a scene in an animated script:
INT. MAGIC FOREST – DAY
A lush, enchanted forest. Trees sparkle with magic. Birds with bright feathers flit around.
LILA
(excitedly)
Look at this place! It’s like nothing I’ve ever seen!
MAX
(skeptical)
It’s beautiful, but… isn’t it a little creepy?
The trees around them sway as if whispering secrets.
3. Structure of an Animated Series Script
Just like any scripted series, an animated show follows a structured format, although there are some unique elements to consider. Most animated series are written in one of the following structures:
- A Half-Hour Show (22 Minutes): This is a typical length for many animated series, such as “SpongeBob SquarePants” or “The Simpsons.” The script is generally structured into three acts, with each act building the narrative arc and leading to a resolution by the end.
- Short-Form Shows (11 Minutes): Shows like “Adventure Time” or “Teen Titans Go!” often have shorter episodes that require a more condensed structure. The script needs to be sharp, focusing on a single conflict or storyline with a quick resolution.
- Serialized Format: Some animated shows, especially in the adult animation realm (like “BoJack Horseman” or “Rick and Morty”), follow a serialized format where each episode builds upon the previous one, often with longer character arcs and more complex plots.
In general, a typical animated script will follow this structure:
- Teaser/Cold Open: A brief introduction that sets the tone of the episode, introducing a quirky problem or situation.
- Act 1: The first 8-10 minutes where the conflict is established, and the main characters are introduced to the problem.
- Act 2: The middle portion (around 10 minutes) where the stakes increase, and the characters attempt various solutions.
- Act 3: The final resolution, where the characters solve the problem (or don’t, depending on the story’s tone).
4. Creating Compelling Characters
In animated series, characters are often larger-than-life, sometimes exaggerated to fit the fantastical nature of the world. However, even in the most whimsical of settings, compelling characters are essential to drive the narrative.
Here are a few tips for writing memorable animated characters:
- Unique Voice: Each character should have a distinctive way of speaking that reflects their personality, background, and role in the story. Voice actors will often amplify these traits through delivery, but as a writer, you should define these quirks in your script.
- Flaws and Growth: Characters need to have flaws and opportunities for growth. Even in a fantastical setting, relatable struggles or desires will resonate with the audience. For instance, a brave character might have a fear they need to overcome, or a comical character might find themselves in situations that challenge their views.
- Visuals and Movement: Animation often brings a heightened sense of action and physical comedy. As you write, think about how your characters move. If your character is particularly energetic, their movements should reflect that in the action descriptions.
5. Writing for Humor
Humor is a crucial component of many animated series. Unlike live-action, animated shows can embrace exaggerated physical humor, visual gags, and absurd scenarios. When writing jokes, here are a few tips:
- Visual Humor: Think about how the action can contribute to the humor. Animated characters often find themselves in situations that allow for physical gags—like a character being flattened by a giant book or stretched out like rubber.
- Witty Dialogue: Animated series often lean on fast-paced, witty exchanges. Quick dialogue and timing are key. Your characters might interrupt one another, banter back and forth, or deliver snappy one-liners.
- The Unexpected: Animation gives you the freedom to subvert expectations. Don’t be afraid to explore surreal or whimsical ideas that wouldn’t be possible in live-action.
6. Collaboration and the Animation Process
Writing for animation is rarely a solo effort. After the script is written, it will be handed off to animators, directors, voice actors, and other collaborators to bring it to life. Here’s how the writing process typically works:
- Storyboard Artists: They create rough visuals based on the script. While writing, consider how your descriptions will translate into storyboards. This is where the visual and narrative aspects merge.
- Voice Actors: The voice actors often bring a script to life in ways that the writer didn’t anticipate. Be open to their interpretation of the character, as it can add depth and nuance to your writing.
- Revisions: Animation is an iterative process. Scripts often undergo multiple revisions, especially after a first round of animation. Don’t be discouraged if your script changes during production.
Writing for animated series is a rewarding and creative process. It involves not only crafting engaging stories and characters but also thinking visually and allowing room for creativity in animation. By understanding the format, structure, and special characteristics of animation, you’ll be able to write scripts that captivate audiences with both wit and imagination. Whether you’re writing a 22-minute episode or a quick, punchy 11-minute short, animation offers endless possibilities to explore storytelling in unique and fun ways.
